“It was by Augustine, then, that a theory was proposed and founded, which, tempered though it was, in its practical application, by his own pious, philanthropic spirit, nevertheless contained the germ of that whole system of spiritual despotism, of intolerance and persecution, which ended in the tribunals of the Inquisition.” “He did not give precedence to the question, What is right? over the question, What is expedient? But a theory which overlooks these distinctions leaves room for any despotism which would make holy ends a pretext for the use of unholy means.”—Id., pages 217, 249, 250.
Note.—It was thus that the union of church and state was formed, out of which was developed “the beast,” or Papacy, of the Apocalypse, which made “war with the saints” and overcame them. A like course cannot fail to produce like results today. Dr. Philip Schaff, in his work on “Church and State,” page 11, well says: “Secular power has proved a satanic gift to the church, and ecclesiastical power has proved an engine of tyranny in the hands of the state.”
Sabbath Legislation
Christ Reproving The Pharisees. "For the Son of man is Lord even of the Sabbath day." Matt. 12:8.
1. Who made the Sabbath?
“In six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.” Ex. 20:11.
2. To whom does the Sabbath belong?